Cricket Australia’s board has been plunged into chaos, with the resignation of chairman Earl Eddings.
Eddings announced this morning he would stand down from his position, and not seek re-election at tomorrow’s AGM.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to be able to serve the sport I love as a Cricket Australia director,” he said in a statement.
“In that time, and particularly during my time as Chair, we have navigated some of the sport’s greatest challenges, including rebuilding the trust and reputation of Australian cricket after the Newlands incident and, more recently, the enormous impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic and international cricket.
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“It is my sincere hope that following my resignation the state and territory associations can unite and work together in the best interests of cricket, allowing the focus to return to the sport ahead of the 2021-22 season.”
Current director Richard Freudenstein has been elected as the interim chairman, and will serve until a permanent chair can be elected.
Eddings took over as chairman in 2018, following the resignation of David Peever. The states were divided over Eddings’ wish to serve a second term as chairman, with New South Wales and Queensland having publicly questioned the move.
News Corp reports that Western Australia has now withdrawn its support, leaving Eddings with no chance of being re-elected.
Only last month the board gave its “unanimous endorsement” of a second term for Eddings, under the proviso that he appoint a deputy and begin the handover process to a new chair.
“I am particularly proud of our collective efforts to overcome the challenges of COVID-19 to stage a hugely successful Indian tour last summer and ensure the Ashes can go ahead this summer,” Eddings said.
“It has been terrific to be involved in the growth of the women’s game in recent years, from the success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and Women’s Big Bash League to the continued increase in girls taking up our sport.
“I have also been pleased to strengthen relations with the players through the Australian Cricketers’ Association.
“My passion for the game is undiminished and I look forward to cheering on our men and women, boys and girls on every stage – from the forthcoming Ashes Tests to weekend club cricket – over the coming summer and beyond.”
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